Сertain issues of hydro-engineering geology in the development and utilisation of underground space in cities and mining regions. Regina E. Dashko’s research

Abstract

The scientific works of Professor Regina E. Dashko have always been distinguished by an interdisciplinary research approach, a multifactorial analysis of processes and phenomena occurring in soils, and a breadth of thinking free from dogmas and clichés, even if the latter are hallowed by long-standing tradition and protected by established prejudices within the scientific community. The combination of impartial analysis in the study of each process and phenomenon in underground space with the synthesis of extensive knowledge from related fields – engineering geology and hydrogeology, soil mechanics and geotechnical design, microbiology and physical chemistry – is a characteristic quality of Regina E. Dashko’s works. The research of Professor R.E. Dashko has not only significantly shaped the development of modern engineering geology and served as the foundation for the St. Petersburg scientific school she leads, but has also had a decisive influence on modern geotechnics. The rapid computerisation of all spheres of human activity tempts many minds, whether wittingly or unwittingly, to substitute the virtual world for the real one. The accompanying schematisation and simplification of processes and phenomena, and the disregard for nuances (which under certain conditions can become determining factors), can be dangerous, especially concerning such a complex creation of nature as soil in its interaction with a structure. The book by R.E. Dashko is the best antidote to this temptation.